Orangutan Uses Medicinal Plant to Treat Wound: Study Reveals Self-Medication Behavior

Have you ever heard of an orangutan using medicinal plants to treat a wound? Well, biologists have observed just that in a Sumatran male orangutan named Rakus. This incredible behavior was captured in Indonesia’s Suaq Balimbing protected rainforest, home to roughly 150 critically endangered Sumatran orangutans.

Rakus sustained a facial wound, most likely during a fight with a neighboring male. But instead of just letting it heal on its own, Rakus took matters into his own hands (or paws, rather) by using the sap and chewed leaves of a medicinal plant to treat his wound. This behavior is the first known incident of an animal in the wild treating a wound with a “biologically active substance.”

Not only did Rakus apply the plant juice to his wound, but he also used the plant mesh to cover the entire gash on his face. The plant he used, Akar Kuning (Fibraurea tinctoria), is known for its analgesic and antipyretic effects and is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases.

What’s even more fascinating is that Rakus rested more than usual while being wounded. This behavior positively affects wound healing as growth hormone release, protein synthesis, and cell division are increased during sleep.

The wound did not show signs of infection and had closed after five days, showcasing the effectiveness of Rakus’ self-medication behavior. This behavior sheds light on the evolutionary origins of wound medication in great ape species and provides new insight into self-medication in humans’ closest relatives.

With only approximately 14,000 individual Sumatran orangutans left in the world, the biggest threat to these intelligent creatures is habitat loss due to deforestation for agricultural development, such as palm oil production. Rakus’ innovative behavior highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of these amazing animals in the face of environmental challenges.

Next time you think about the incredible healing powers of nature, remember Rakus and his use of medicinal plants to treat his wound. It’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of protecting our precious natural habitats.

For more fascinating stories on environmental issues and wildlife conservation, be sure to check out EcoWatch, a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental causes, issues, and solutions.